Benefits of Quitting
![Quitting smoking means a healthier life. Quitting smoking means a healthier life.](https://static.oprah.com/omagazine/200801/images/omag_200801_self_120x90.jpg)
The benefits of quitting smoking include immediate rewards such as whiter teeth and heightened senses and long-term effects such as improved circulation and a stronger immune system.
Change your life for good!
Immediate Rewards of QuittingChange your life for good!
Kicking the tobacco habit offers some benefits that you'll notice right away and some that will develop over time. These rewards can improve your day-to-day life a great deal.
- Your breath smells better
- Stained teeth get whiter
- Bad smelling clothes and hair go away
- Your yellow fingers and fingernails disappear
- Food tastes better
- Your sense of smell returns to normal
- Everyday activities no longer leave you out of breath (for example, climbing stairs or light housework)
Your heart rate and blood pressure drops.
(Effect of Smoking on Arterial Stiffness and Pulse Pressure Amplification, Mahmud, A, Feely, J. 2003.)
12 Hours After Quitting
The carbon monoxide level in your blood drops to normal.
(U.S. Surgeon General's Report, 1988)
As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.